As pets grow older, their bodies and behaviors change—and so should their nutrition. The same food that kept your pet energetic in their younger years might not meet their needs in their senior years. Our geriatric programs help guide pet owners through this critical transition. With the proper feeding habits and regular monitoring, you can help your senior dog or cat enjoy a healthy and comfortable life.
Watch for Signs That a Diet Change Is Needed
Senior pets may not be able to tell you when their food isn’t working for them, but their behavior and physical condition often reveal the need for change. Paying attention to these signs is the first step in supporting proper nutrition.
Common signs your senior pet may need a diet adjustment:
- Slower movement or reluctance to play
- Noticeable weight gain or weight loss
- Lower energy levels throughout the day
- Trouble chewing or changes in eating habits
- Digestive changes like bloating or irregular bathroom habits
If you notice any of these patterns, it may be time to re-evaluate your pet’s current diet with professional guidance.
Support Aging Joints with the Right Food Additions
Mobility can become more difficult for senior pets, but diet can play a supportive role in keeping your pet moving comfortably. While you should always follow your vet’s guidance, there are general tips you can follow to create a joint-friendly feeding plan.
Ways to support your pet’s joints through nutrition:
- Choose food textures that are easy to chew for older pets
- Include foods that offer natural joint-supportive nutrients
- Opt for smaller, more frequent meals to ease digestion
- Keep your pet at a healthy weight to avoid excess strain on joints
- Avoid overfeeding or high-calorie treats that may lead to stiffness
Helping your pet maintain a balanced weight is one of the best ways to support long-term mobility.
Reassess Nutritional Needs Regularly
As your pet continues to age, their nutritional needs can change more than once. Routine check-ins and observation help you make adjustments before problems develop.
Smart habits for managing senior pet nutrition:
- Schedule regular wellness visits with your vet for ongoing support
- Monitor appetite and weight changes monthly
- Keep a feeding log to track what foods your pet responds to best
- Reassess portion sizes as activity levels shift
- Ask your veterinary team about recommended food types for aging pets
Making nutrition a part of your overall geriatric care plan leads to better health outcomes in the long run.
Support Senior Pets with Geriatric Care That Adapts to Them
Feeding your senior pet isn’t just about what goes in the bowl—it’s about understanding how their body changes over time. Contact us today to schedule a senior wellness visit and learn how you can help your pet thrive in their golden years.
